Released: 2023
Alright, let’s chop it up over E-Dubble’s “Hampden Parks (Freestyle Friday #7)”. At first blush, it’s this slammin’ slow burner of a track that’s both a reflection on personal journey and a call out on the hip-hop scene. The track’s throbbing core is a musing on self-evolution, tribulations, embracing flaws, and celebration of life.
Verse one takes us on a ride with E-Dubble laying down the day-to-day struggle, sometimes celebratory with a “cup raised”, other times feeling “suicidal”. The “do or die” vibe suggests a constant pressure to keep producing music. In between, he shouts out his Philly roots with a mention of “Citizen’s Bank” (Phillies’ stadium) and “Camden Yards” (Orioles’ playground). He’s representing, always keeping it 100.
In the chorus, “Who they be?/Well, they be us!” is a defiant declaration of identity. E-Dubble and his crew ain’t about fronting. They are true to themselves and their craft, embracing their uniqueness. This ain’t no cookie cutter mainstream rap, this is that real stuff.
Verse two is a provocation to the mainstream, with E-Dubble critiquing the fakes, the “clowns runnin’ round with the make up on their face”. He’s all about authenticity, crafting bars and beats that are true to himself rather than chasing popular trends. He also alludes to his business acumen, “I’m a business man, and a business, man”, a savvy operator navigating through life’s obstacles.
Lastly, E-Dubble gives us some of his personal history, mentioning “Blue Bell, Ambler”, small towns in Pennsylvania where he likely spent time writing his rhymes. He’s a hometown hero, keeping his roots firmly planted while reaching for the sky.
The humorous outro where he mentions “holy guacamole”, reflects the free-spirited nature of the freestyle. This is E-Dubble’s way of not taking himself too seriously, a nod to the fact that while his flow can be intense and raw, he’s also about just vibin’ and having a good time.
“Hampden Parks” is a testament to E-Dubble’s determination and steadfast resolve. It’s a dope anthem that uplifts and motivates, calling on us to embrace our uniqueness and never shy away from wearing our true colors. All while living life to the fullest and making our Friday freestyles something that’ll be bumpin’ from Hampden to wherever hip-hop heads are found.
